Amazon Closes Mobile Wallet App Due to Negative Performance and Reviews

Amazon announced it will discontinue its Amazon Wallet beta, a test for the company’s virtual payments app. It did not say whether or not the app will be released again in the future.

Tom Cook, an Amazon representative, said, “We’ve learned a great deal from the Amazon Wallet beta program and will look for ways to apply these lessons in the future as we continue to innovate on behalf of our customers.”

Analysts say the company is currently having a tough time breaking into new markets. The beta wallet was the second offering from Amazon that was expected to do well, but failed to deliver.

The retail giant immediately removed the app from Google Play Store and the Amazon App Store. Users still using the digital wallet were advised on the shutdown Tuesday via email.

Individuals will still be able to use any rewards or membership cards associated with the app despite the lack of support. However, balances will not be tracked by the system starting Wednesday, holding users accountable for their own activities.

Many felt the app was filled with low quality, outdated functionality. Unlike its other competitors, the digital payments app does not allow people to store debit and credit cards. Because of this, a secondary app was required for card transactions.

The beta program lasted for six months, receiving mediocre reviews (3.1 out of 5 stars) worldwide. Several users pointed out flaws in the core features of the digital wallet, making it nearly impossible to integrate with daily living.

“No merchant I have tried has been able to scan my phone to get the barcode,” highlighted a frustrated individual under the review section of the app.

Another person called attention to a serious compatibility flaw with the establishment’s flagship device, indicating, “Doesn’t work with the Fire Phone.”